Haifa is the third largest city in Israel, and the largest in the North. Historically, there isn't much going on Jewish-ly until the mid 19th century as Jews from Europe made aliyah. During that time, Haifa was a major port for immigration, perhaps second to Tel Aviv. Haifa has become a major refuge for people of all faiths and backgrounds. Today, you can find Mizrachi Jews, former Soviet Union Jews, Arabs, Druze (a religion of secrecy) and the Baha'i.
I did a project about the Baha'i during my Junior Year at Rutgers. For being a young religion of less than 200 years, they have quickly become one of the largest. Numbers worldwide range to about 8 or 9 million. According to my old Powerpoint presentation, it is the second fastest growing religion in the world. The basis of this religion is elements of combining Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and some bits of Zoroastrianism. There are two main people: the Bab, and Bah'a'ullah. The Bab, which literally means the "door" or "gate", announced the coming of a new prophet. Bah'a'ullah would be that prophet. Those who followed the tenets of Bah'a'ullah faced persecution from many sides. Nowadays, less so.
The Baha'i Gardens in Haifa, an UNESCO site. The big dome is the Shrine of the Baha'i which marks the final resting place of the Bab. It was unfortunately closed.
According to a few Haifa dwellers, this city is somewhat in between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. It is serious but knows how to have fun. Indeed, this city has beautiful beaches, the beautiful Mount Carmel to climb, great museums, and just a few nice town to be in. As my mother would say, "Real people live here."
Haifa is home to the ONLY subway system in Israel: the Carmelit! It was unusual taking a subway car underground of a hill. Really cool, though.
Near a major port in the city. I couldn't resist the shot.
View of the Downtown from my hotel room. Breath taking, isn't it?
I took a very nice day and a half in this city during my week off. Afterwards, my group of friends went to the Tishbi and Carmel wineries and sampled very nice wines. I think I've started to figure out what types I prefer, but the whole time I was considering what sort of meals would go with particular wines. My sister would be proud.
Me with classmates Becka and Noah near the really good wine section at Tishbi.
That's all for now, folks!
"Holiday" is an early pop song by Madonna.
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